My Huskies – Species-appropriate husbandry at Manapi Husky in Lapland
- Jul 20
- 3 min read
When you visit Manapi Husky in Swedish Lapland, you don't just meet sled dogs. You meet dogs with very different stories, unique personalities, and a home where their well-being is paramount.
Manapi Husky Pack
Where do my huskies come from?
My pack consists of Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Huskies. Both breeds bring different characteristics and complement each other wonderfully.
Siberian Huskies impress with their stamina, elegance, and friendly nature. Originally bred by the Chukchi people in northeastern Siberia, they accompanied them for many generations as loyal working and family dogs.
Alaskan Huskies are not an officially recognized breed, but were specifically bred for sled dog racing. They combine speed, willingness to work, and enormous stamina, and are now among the most successful sled dogs in the world.
Every single dog in my pack is unique. Some take on the role of lead dogs, others provide stability to the team, or feel most comfortable in the heart of the group. It is precisely these different personalities that make working with them so fascinating on every husky tour.
Husky pack kept in species-appropriate conditions Siberian Husky at Manapi Husky in Swedish Lapland Isabelle Portmann, Manapi Huskies kept in a species-appropriate manner
A home for a dog's entire life
My huskies are not working tools or seasonal dogs to me. They are part of my life and my family.
They live in large packs with plenty of space to play, rest, and socialize. Living in a pack is in keeping with their nature and, for me, is an essential part of keeping huskies in a species-appropriate manner in Lapland.
Even if a dog is no longer able to work in the team due to age, it naturally stays with me. Every dog deserves its place – from the first day to the last.
My training is based on trust.
I am convinced that a good husky team is not created through pressure, but through trust, patience and mutual respect.
That's why I train each dog individually. Age, health, motivation, and how they feel on a given day all play a crucial role. Not every dog runs every day, and not every dog performs the same task.
I increase the training step by step and make sure my dogs enjoy their work. A husky that runs with enthusiasm doesn't need to be forced. This motivation is what makes all the difference for me – and is noticeable on every outing with Manapi Husky.
Individual Husky training in a snowy landscape Husky is lovingly prepared for the tour A moment of trust between human and husky
Teamwork on four paws
A sled dog team only works if everyone cooperates. Each dog takes on its task and contributes its part to the team's success.
I observe my dogs very closely every day. I quickly notice small changes in their behavior or motivation. This allows me to tailor the training to each individual dog and ensure that every dog feels comfortable.
Why I'm taking this path
Many people ask me why I go to all this trouble.
The answer is simple: Because I am convinced that my dogs deserve it.
They give my guests unforgettable experiences in the nature of Lapland. That's why I see it as my responsibility to enable them to live a life that meets their natural needs.
When you visit Manapi Husky, you don't just experience a husky tour in Swedish Lapland or the breathtaking landscape. You get to know a pack based on trust, respect, and genuine connection.
That's exactly what makes Manapi Husky special – and that's exactly why my dogs always come first in everything I do.
If you want to experience for yourself what trust and teamwork feel like – experience my pack on a husky tour.
Isabelle & the Manapi pack 🐾
